What to Practice When You Have No Idea What to Practice

You sit down with your guitar. You’re ready to play.

But then you pause.
“What should I work on today?”

It’s a common struggle of guitar learners: not knowing what to practice.

You want to make music. But the options feel overwhelming.

So let me help.

Here are 3 simple steps you can use to figure out exactly what to practice — every time you pick up your guitar.

Step 1: Ask Yourself — “Where Am I Struggling?”

Start by identifying your current frustration point. What feels awkward or confusing in your playing?

Maybe it's:

• A rhythm that never sounds quite right

• A chord (like F or Bm) that always buzzes

• Switching between two chords that slows you down

Whatever it is, that struggle is a signal. It’s not a reason to stop — it’s your next practice focus.

If you can isolate one specific skill that gives you trouble, you’ve already figured out what to practice.
Target the problem — don’t avoid it.

Step 2: Listen to What You Want to Sound Like

Sometimes the best way to choose what to practice is by tuning into what inspires you.

Ask yourself:

• “What kind of guitar player do I want to become?”

• “What songs or sounds light me up when I hear them?”

• “Do I love classical guitar? Acoustic rhythm guitar? Classic rock solos?”

Once you know the answer, reverse-engineer your practice.

For example:

• If you love classical guitar, work on pieces that develop right-hand arpeggio skills.

• If you love acoustic rhythm guitar, focus on chord changes and strumming.

• If you dream of improvising solos, work on scales, bends, and vibrato.

Let your musical taste guide your path.

Step 3: Choose One Small Step Forward

Once you’ve identified a struggle and an aspiration, don’t try to tackle it all at once. Instead, pick one small, specific next step.

Examples:

• “Master a specific classical guitar right-hand pattern.”

• “Practice switching from G to D slowly and cleanly.”

• “Learn the intro to a favorite song.”

The key is to avoid vague goals like “get better at guitar.” Instead, zoom in on a measurable, doable action. That’s where real progress happens.

Bonus: Still Not Sure?

If you're still feeling stuck, that might be a sign you’d benefit from some outside guidance. A teacher can help you:

• Set goals

• Create a customized plan

• Stay accountable and encouraged

If you’re wondering whether lessons might be a good fit, just email me, [email protected]. I’m happy to talk through it — no pressure.

Until then, keep asking the right questions… and keep making music.